Goblins, aliens, princes and princesses, superhumans, mermaids, and whatnot. The fantasy genre in Korea covers everything there is you can think of. There are so many varieties that sometimes it becomes difficult to choose from. It is even more difficult to make a list of just 10! So, while you all wait for Barbie and Oppenheimer to release, here are the top 10 K-dramas and films of the fantasy genre that you can give a try.
1. Mr. Queen
This show did everything you can possibly think of from a good fantasy drama. It is a historical drama with a lot of hilarious moments as well as romance. It created controversy and then became the tenth highest-rated Korean cable drama. In the drama Queen Cheorin of the Joseon period accidentally swaps her soul with a modern-age chef. We see the story from the perspective of the chef who finds himself in the body of the Queen. The concept of the show is fresh. It exceeds every expectation of the viewers, which is why season 2 is highly anticipated. You can watch it on Prime Video.
2. Guardian- The Lonely And Great God
Guardian: The Lonely and Great God popularly also known as Goblin is a fantasy romantic drama aired in 2016-2017. Now, this is a show that every K-drama lover definitely knows about. If you are new to the Korean entertainment world, then this drama would be a great recommendation. There is a 939-year-old immortal goblin, Kim Shin, played by Gong Yoo, who is cursed to live forever due to his past sins. To end his immortality, he needs to find the Goblin's bride. The actors did a fantastic job with the characters they were assigned. All in all, watch it if you haven't on Netflix.
3. Moon Lovers- Scarlet Heart Ryeo
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, is another amazing historical drama that has a lot of stuff related to time travel. A modern-day woman travels back in time, of course magically, to the Goryeo Dynasty. You will find a lot of romance, politics, action, and emotional moments. This series might be worth giving a try if you love a little bit of everything. You can watch this on Netflix and Jio Cinema.
4. Alchemy Of Souls
The series aired in 2022 consists of two seasons already. The story has young mages, a lot of magic, and body-swapping. In a very short time, the show received plenty of positive reviews. There is nothing new about the drama. It follows the path of the typical K-drama (longing to meet the lover, star-crossed lovers, memory loss, and more). But if you are a fan of the same pattern, you can watch it on Netflix.
5. While You Were Sleeping
When you mix fantasy with romance, drama, thriller, and legal genres, you get this amazing K-drama. The story follows Hong-joo, who can see the future in her dreams, Jae-chan, a prosecutor, who is stuck in the events seen by Hong-joo, and Woo-Tak, a police officer with a mysterious past. The storyline throughout the show is unique and engaging. The cute chemistry between Hong-joo and Jae-chan is worth watch watching. It doesn't seem forced. This show is a combination of a lot of genres we didn't know we needed. While You Were Sleeping is available on Disney+ Hotstar.
6. Psychokinesis
Psychokinesis is a South Korean superhero film directed by Yeon Sang-ho, known for his critically acclaimed zombie film "Train to Busan." Seok-heon, an ordinary man gains the superpower of telekinesis. With his powers, he tries to help his estranged daughter. It might seem a little serious, but it's got comedy, drama, and superhero action. It is an entertaining, light-hearted film. The visual effects are well-executed, considering the film's budget and scale. Overall, Psychokinesis is the first film of the superhero genre coming from South Korea that isn't cringe to watch. It is available on Netflix.
7. Along With The Gods- The Two Worlds
The movie was a commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing films in South Korean cinema history. It deserved the hype because the story was worth it. A firefighter named Kim Ja-hong dies unexpectedly in the line of duty. After his death, he is guided by three afterlife guardians. They help him navigate through seven trials in the afterlife. Visually, the film is stunning. The intensity and excitement created throughout are commendable. Along With the Gods: The Two Worlds is a highly recommended watch. It is available on Netflix.
8. Okja
"Okja" is a South Korean-American film directed by Bong Joon-ho. It became a critically acclaimed film in no time. The film is about a girl who is determined to rescue her friend from a multinational company. Her friend is a genetically modified super-pig named Okja. The cast includes famous actors like Tilda Swinton, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Paul Dano. It is a thought-provoking movie with a crucial social message. This is a must-watch available on Netflix.
9. Be With You
"Be With You" is a fantasy, romantic film which is based on a Japanese novel of the same name by Takuji Ichikawa. A sweet, emotional film about a father and his young son who are still mourning the loss of his wife and mother to his child. One day, the father and the son get a second chance to spend time with Soo-ah (wife/mother). But, there's a catch. They have to leave again as soon as the rainy season ends. The narrative and performance in the movie are so beautiful that you are surely gonna cry by the time you reach the end. You can watch it on Netflix.
10. Wonderful Nightmare
Wonderful Nightmare is a comedy film that has unique and delightful twists throughout its running time. The story is about Lee Yeon-woo, who is a successful woman. She dies in an accident. But, to her surprise, she is granted a second chance. Again, there is a catch. She finds herself back in a body of a housewife who has five children. The film is packed with comedy. There are emotional moments as well. Overall, a well-balanced movie with good performances and story. You can watch this fantasy-comedy on Netflix.
